Blackalicious. "Make You Feel That Way." BLAZING ARROW, MCA RECORDS/QUANNUM PROJECTS, 2002.
There's just something about this track. The triumphant horns, that baseline, those lyrics, MC Gift of Gab's soothing voice, the rhythm that keeps humming along.
I can't help but feel positive when I give it a listen. And those who know me know it's on heavy rotation.
Recently I had a chance to see Blackalicious perform at Oakland's classic jazz venue Yoshi's. Gift of Gab has been battling the effects of kidney failure since 2012, with frequent dialysis, and while you could see the toll it's taken on his health, he is still one of the most prolific and talented MCs. His "verbal dexterity and lyrical eloquence" is simply unmatched and a treat to witness live.